Anyone that has done struts on a BMW 5 series knows how outragously expensive they are... Some places charge $400-$600 EACH SIDE and that's not a loaded strut either. The Boge struts which are OE are the most expensive, however I have found the Bilstien struts to be a very good value and they work and handle great!

The best part is you can use them on the left or right! Have a look at the suspension setup on a BMW 5 series.. Pretty much the same as they have always been, funky curved lower control arms for sure, but man do they handle nice.

Here you can see the strut leaking. On the other side it was cracked, but this was due to a collision aka curb job. Notice the funky factory bend in the lower coil, this makes it a pain in the ass, or should I say more of a pain in the ass even if you use a nice spring compressor.

Have a look at this suspension! Pretty funky huh?

Look at that funky looking lower control arm! You wouldn't think this thing handles as good as it does, but it does! LOL, plus most all the stuff is light weight (but strong) aluminum.

Here you can see the front hub and brake assy. has been removed. Be sure to keep the lock washers in order as they are needed to re-install.

Here you can see the brake rotor, removed with the entire front hub.

Here you get a good idea of how these ball joints fit into the spindle. Notice how they are chamfered, you want to make sure these areas are clear of any dirt or debre prior to re-install and be sure the little washers have not fallen off the ball joints or tie rod ends.